IPL (Intense Pulse Light)

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IPL (Intense Pulsed Light), also referred to as Photorejuvenation, is a skin rejuvenating treatment that uses intense pulsed light to treat sun damage, pigmentation problems, rosacea and broken capillaries. These are quick, gentle, non-invasive treatments that can address the effects of photoaging and sun damage on the face, neck, hands and body.

IPL essentially restores the skin’s youthful appearance by creating tiny controlled wounds on the skin which trigger the formation of collagen and elastin. Candidates include individuals with light to medium complexions who are looking to improve areas of redness and/or hyperpigmentation. IPL is ideal for peoples whose busy schedules do not allow them to take time off to recover from ablative treatments or strong chemical peels.

Dr. Buckingham performs IPL treatments in the office setting at the Buckingham Center for Facial Plastic Surgery of Austin, Texas. The procedure takes approximately fifteen to thirty minutes to complete. The treatment area is first covered with a very thin layer of gel. A hand piece is then passed over the skin, emitting gentle pulses of therapeutic light. Patients may experience some discomfort during treatment but this is usually very mild and easily tolerated. If need be, a topical anesthetic cream can be applied prior to treatment to numb the skin.

There is no recovery or downtime following IPL treatment and patients are able to immediately return to their normal routine. Minor redness similar to a flushed appearance occasionally occurs but generally clears up within one to two hours. Multiple treatments are often needed to achieve the best results. Patients usually undergo a total of four to six treatments spaced at three week intervals.

Find answers to IPL Laser questions in Dr. Buckingham's Q&A.

Q – What is IPL?
IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light. IPL treatment, also referred to as photorejuvenation, is a gentle, non-invasive procedure which can rejuvenate the skin and improve sun damage, pigmentation problems, rosacea and broken capillaries.

Q – How do I know if I am a good candidate for IPL?
If you are in good health and have realistic expectations for improving sun damage, pigmentation problems, rosacea or broken capillaries, then IPL treatment may be for you. IPL is best for treating light to medium complexions, and it is ideal for those who cannot take the time off to recover from ablative treatments or strong chemical peels.

Q – Where is the IPL procedure performed?
The IPL treatment is performed in the office setting at the Buckingham Center for Facial Plastic Surgery of Austin, Texas.

Q – What type of anesthesia is used for IPL treatment?
Discomfort is generally mild. A topical anesthetic cream can be applied prior to treatment if necessary.

Q – What is the downtime for IPL treatment?
IPL treatment involves virtually no recovery or downtime. Some minor redness may be present for one to two hours after treatment, though patients are generally able to return to work and other normal activities right away.

Q – Is more than one IPL treatment needed to get the best results?
For optimal results, several IPL treatments are needed. Most patients receive four to six treatments performed at three week intervals.